Where there's smoke, there's intentional fire

Updated 11:08 pm, Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Photo: William Luther, San Antonio Express-News

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Firefighters from several agencies gather Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2012 along the fire line of a prescribed fire in Government Canyon State Park in western Bexar County as they examine how the fire is behaving before making their next move. More than 30 people were involved in the effort whch will continue Wednesday.

Firefighters from several agencies gather Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2012 along the fire line of a prescribed fire in Government Canyon State Park in western Bexar County as they examine how the fire is behaving before

Firefighters from several agencies gather Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2012 along the fire line of a prescribed fire in Government Canyon State Park in western Bexar County as they examine how the fire is behaving before making their next move. More than 30 people were involved in the effort which will continue Wednesday.

Firefighters from several agencies gather Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2012 along the fire line of a prescribed fire in Government Canyon State Park in western Bexar County as they examine how the fire is behaving before

A firefighter makes his way Tue., Sept. 11, 2012 aong a fire line at a prescribed fire in Government Canyon State Natural Area in western Bexar County.

A firefighter makes his way Tue., Sept. 11, 2012 aong a fire line at a prescribed fire in Government Canyon State Natural Area in western Bexar County.

Photo: William Luther, San Antonio Express-News

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Smoke from a prescribed burn in Government Canyon State Natural Area rises Tue., Sept. 11, 2012 as firefighters watch the perimeter and protect a nearby building.

Smoke from a prescribed burn in Government Canyon State Natural Area rises Tue., Sept. 11, 2012 as firefighters watch the perimeter and protect a nearby building.

Photo: William Luther, San Antonio Express-News

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The sun sets over a small grassland area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

The sun sets over a small grassland area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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A full moon rises over a patch of winter grass at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

A full moon rises over a patch of winter grass at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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The sun sets over a small grassland area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

The sun sets over a small grassland area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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The Gallagher area of Government Canyon State Natural Area, shown here, may soon be annexed, along with other portions, by the city of San Antonio.

The Gallagher area of Government Canyon State Natural Area, shown here, may soon be annexed, along with other portions, by the city of San Antonio.

Photo: Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News

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The MABE-Canyon Ranch area of Government Canyon State Natural Area, shown here, may soon be annexed, along with other portions, by the city of San Antonio.

The MABE-Canyon Ranch area of Government Canyon State Natural Area, shown here, may soon be annexed, along with other portions, by the city of San Antonio.

Photo: Billy Calzada, San Antonio Express-News

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Theropod tracks, marked with 2-inch square white tiles, on the upper trackway at Government Canyon State Natural Area.

Theropod tracks, marked with 2-inch square white tiles, on the upper trackway at Government Canyon State Natural Area.

Photo: Marvin Pfeiffer /Marvin Pfeiffer / Express-News

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The sun sets over Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

The sun sets over Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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Sun falls through the trees at a picnic area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

Sun falls through the trees at a picnic area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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Sun lights up the grass at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

Sun lights up the grass at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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A Spanish Dagger still retains its bloom stalk at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

A Spanish Dagger still retains its bloom stalk at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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Sun falls through the trees at a picnic area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

Sun falls through the trees at a picnic area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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Sun falls through the trees at a picnic area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

Sun falls through the trees at a picnic area at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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Leslie Persyn, right, and Phyllis Gutierrez, left, walk their dogs at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

Leslie Persyn, right, and Phyllis Gutierrez, left, walk their dogs at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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Andrew Adam, his wife Jennifer Adam and their daughter Sienna Adam run together across a bridge at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

Andrew Adam, his wife Jennifer Adam and their daughter Sienna Adam run together across a bridge at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. San Antonio City Council ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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Fengxin Chen, right, and his son Kimmy Chen bike together at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. The Chens have been coming to the park for many years and enjoy the natural beauty they said. San Antonio City Council will soon vote on whether or not to annex additional lands in the property mid January. less

Fengxin Chen, right, and his son Kimmy Chen bike together at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio, Tx. on Sunday, January 4, 2014. The Chens have been coming to the park for many years and enjoy ... more

Photo: Matthew Busch, For The San Antonio Express-News

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A trio of hikers walk along a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from Christmas until January 7th in an effort to attract more visitors as well as to validate funding for the parks by the legislature. The trio were among a small group of people who took advantage of the mild temperatures on Christmas day to visit the park. less

A trio of hikers walk along a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from Christmas until January 7th in an effort to attract more visitors as well as to ... more

Photo: Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News

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Don (from left) take a picture of Alex and Rachel (last names withheld) during a hike on a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from Christmas until January 7th in an effort to attract more visitors as well as to validate funding for the parks by the legislature. The trio of hikers were amongst a small group of people who took advantage of the mild temperatures on Christmas day to visit the park. less

Don (from left) take a picture of Alex and Rachel (last names withheld) during a hike on a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from Christmas until January ... more

Photo: Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News

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Don (from left), Alex and her friend Rachel (last names withheld) reach the top of a bluff during a hike on a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from Christmas until January 7th in an effort to attract more visitors as well as to validate funding for the parks by the legislature. The trio of hikers were amongst a small group of people who took advantage of the mild temperatures on Christmas day to visit the park. less

Don (from left), Alex and her friend Rachel (last names withheld) reach the top of a bluff during a hike on a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from ... more

Photo: Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News

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A trio of hikers walk along a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from Christmas until January 7th in an effort to attract more visitors as well as to validate funding for the parks by the legislature. The trio were among a small group of people who took advantage of the mild temperatures on Christmas day to visit the park. less

A trio of hikers walk along a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from Christmas until January 7th in an effort to attract more visitors as well as to ... more

Photo: Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News

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Alex (from left) with her father, Don, and her friend Rachel (last names withheld) take a hike on a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from Christmas until January 7th in an effort to attract more visitors as well as to validate funding for the parks by the legislature. The trio of hikers were amongst a small group of people who took advantage of the mild temperatures on Christmas day to visit the park. less

Alex (from left) with her father, Don, and her friend Rachel (last names withheld) take a hike on a trail at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 25, 2012. The park remained open from Christmas until ... more

Photo: Kin Man Hui, San Antonio Express-News

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The Mossy Grove is a picturesque surprise on a trail at Government Canyon State Natural Area.

The Mossy Grove is a picturesque surprise on a trail at Government Canyon State Natural Area.

Photo: San Antonio Express-News

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The Mossy Grove is a pleasant surprise along the Joe Johnson Route, a hiking trail at Government Canyon State Natural Area. The park has more than 40 miles of trails for hiking, biking and running. It lists 10 activities for the First Day Hike program ranging from an 8 a.m. overlook hike (7 miles) to a sunset hike (3.5 miles) that begins at 4:30. Group sizes are limited and reservations requested. less

The Mossy Grove is a pleasant surprise along the Joe Johnson Route, a hiking trail at Government Canyon State Natural Area. The park has more than 40 miles of trails for hiking, biking and running. It lists 10 ... more

Photo: San Antonio Express-News

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Spanish moss is draped over live oaks and cedar elms in a spot on the overlook hike at Government Canyon State Natural area in northwest San Antonio. The park plans 10 activities for the First Day Hikes program Jan. 1 less

Spanish moss is draped over live oaks and cedar elms in a spot on the overlook hike at Government Canyon State Natural area in northwest San Antonio. The park plans 10 activities for the First Day Hikes program ... more

Photo: San Antonio Express-News

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Wildflowers and trees decorate a high ridge on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Wildflowers and trees decorate a high ridge on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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An opening in the ground reveals a cave on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

An opening in the ground reveals a cave on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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Chris Holm (left) and Chris Collins check out an opening in the bedrock in an area for possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Chris Holm (left) and Chris Collins check out an opening in the bedrock in an area for possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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A peak with a 360 degree view is a feature on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

A peak with a 360 degree view is a feature on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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Trails intersect with access roads on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Trails intersect with access roads on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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A westward vista shows on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

A westward vista shows on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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Many species of plant show on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Many species of plant show on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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An old bridge stands on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

An old bridge stands on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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Horses wander onto a parcel considered for possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Horses wander onto a parcel considered for possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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Chris Collins (left) and Chris Holm check the view on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Chris Collins (left) and Chris Holm check the view on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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Downtown San Antonio can be seen in the distance from a hilltop on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Downtown San Antonio can be seen in the distance from a hilltop on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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Wold flowers decorate a hilltop on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Wold flowers decorate a hilltop on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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A view off a ridge shows different hues in the hill country on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

A view off a ridge shows different hues in the hill country on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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A to the west shows from a hilltop on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

A to the west shows from a hilltop on possible land additions to the Government Canyon State Natural Area on October 30, 2012.

Photo: Tom Reel, San Antonio Express-News

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The historic Zizelmann House is seen at Government Canyon State Natural Area Thursday July 14, 2005 before the opening of the park.

The historic Zizelmann House is seen at Government Canyon State Natural Area Thursday July 14, 2005 before the opening of the park.

Photo: WILLIAM LUTHER, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

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Sunset at Government Canyon headquarters.

Sunset at Government Canyon headquarters.

Photo: COURTESY TEXAS PARKS & WILDL

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Bicyclist David Rogers pauses to chat with Steve Hawkins, a volunteer with Friends of Government Canyon who guides the Explore the Canyon Hike.

Bicyclist David Rogers pauses to chat with Steve Hawkins, a volunteer with Friends of Government Canyon who guides the Explore the Canyon Hike.

Photo: JOHN GOODSPEED/FOR THE EXPRESS-NEWS

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Fall foliage appears on trees at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011.

Fall foliage appears on trees at Government Canyon State Park on Tuesday, Dec. 6, 2011.

Photo: KIN MAN HUI, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

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A monarch caterpillar will feed exclusively on milkweed.

A monarch caterpillar will feed exclusively on milkweed.

Photo: WILLIAM LUTHER, STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

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Prickly cactus grows by the South Bluff Spurs Overlook at Government Canyon, Thursday, June 25, 2009.

Prickly cactus grows by the South Bluff Spurs Overlook at Government Canyon, Thursday, June 25, 2009.

Photo: JERRY LARA, San Antonio Express-News

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Animal tracks are seen along the Bluff Spurs Trail at Government Canyon Natural Area, Thursday, June 25, 2009.

Animal tracks are seen along the Bluff Spurs Trail at Government Canyon Natural Area, Thursday, June 25, 2009.

Photo: JERRY LARA, San Antonio Express-News

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Cactus grows by a rock along the Bluff Spurs Trail at Government Canyon Natural Area, Thursday, June 25, 2009.

Cactus grows by a rock along the Bluff Spurs Trail at Government Canyon Natural Area, Thursday, June 25, 2009.

Photo: JERRY LARA, San Antonio Express-News

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Hikers walk through Government Canyon State Natural Area Sunday. Trainers with a group called Leave No Trace was teaching people how to minimize their impact on public recreational areas.

Hikers walk through Government Canyon State Natural Area Sunday. Trainers with a group called Leave No Trace was teaching people how to minimize their impact on public recreational areas.

Photo: JOHN DAVENPORT, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

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Chief interpreter John Koepke walks under a ledge at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio April 7, 2005.

Chief interpreter John Koepke walks under a ledge at Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio April 7, 2005.

Photo: WILLIAM LUTHER, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

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A butterfly sips nectar from one of the thousands of wildflowers blooming after spring rains at Government Canyon State Natural Area.

A butterfly sips nectar from one of the thousands of wildflowers blooming after spring rains at Government Canyon State Natural Area.

Photo: JOHN GOODSPEED, SPECIAL TO THE EXPRESS-NEWS

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A group of hikers stroll among the wildflowers at Government Canyon State Natural Area, which will have moderate and more strenuous guided hikes during National Trails Day.

A group of hikers stroll among the wildflowers at Government Canyon State Natural Area, which will have moderate and more strenuous guided hikes during National Trails Day.

Photo: JOHN GOODSPEED, SPECIAL TO THE EXPRESS-NEWS

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The Tower of the Americas and downtown San Antonio can be seen Thursday April 7, 2005 from the soon-to-be-open Government Canyon State Natural Area.

The Tower of the Americas and downtown San Antonio can be seen Thursday April 7, 2005 from the soon-to-be-open Government Canyon State Natural Area.

Photo: WILLIAM LUTHER, SAN ANTONIO EXPRESS-NEWS

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Hikers walk on the Joe Johnston trail route, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Hikers walk on the Joe Johnston trail route, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Photo: Darren Abate, Darren Abate/For The Express-New

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Campsite 20, photographed Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Campsite 20, photographed Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Photo: Darren Abate, Darren Abate/For The Express-New

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A cyclist rides on the Joe Johnston trail route, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

A cyclist rides on the Joe Johnston trail route, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Photo: Darren Abate, Darren Abate/For The Express-New

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A motorcyclist rides out of the park's main entrance, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

A motorcyclist rides out of the park's main entrance, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Photo: Darren Abate, Darren Abate/For The Express-New

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Campsite 22, photographed Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Campsite 22, photographed Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Photo: Darren Abate, Darren Abate/For The Express-New

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A campsite fire pit, photographed Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

A campsite fire pit, photographed Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Photo: Darren Abate, Darren Abate/For The Express-New

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Indigenous plants line the entrance to park headquarters, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Indigenous plants line the entrance to park headquarters, Sunday, Sept. 23, 2012, at the Government Canyon State Natural Area in San Antonio.

Photo: Darren Abate, Darren Abate/For The Express-New

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Gonzales, a student at San Antonio College, brushes dirt out of the Acrocanthosaurus tracks on the lower trackway.

Gonzales, a student at San Antonio College, brushes dirt out of the Acrocanthosaurus tracks on the lower trackway.

Photo: Marvin Pfeiffer / San Antonio Express-News

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The best preserved Sauropod track on the lower trackway at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. The right rear footprint is believed to be from an extremely large quadrapedal plant-eating dinosaur named Sauroposeidon. The tracks of the animal were determined to measure 29 1/2 inches long and 19 1/2 inches wide. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

The best preserved Sauropod track on the lower trackway at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. The right rear footprint is believed to be from an extremely large quadrapedal ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, File

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Dinosaur tracks on the upper trackway were marked with 2-inch square white tiles on the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Dinosaur tracks on the upper trackway were marked with 2-inch square white tiles on the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, File

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Photo: Mike Fisher

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Richard Gonzalez (crouched down at center) and Diana Azouggagh (right) measure the record the Acrocanthosaurus tracks while Dr. Thomas Adams (left) photographs other theropod prints in the lower trackway at Government Canyon State Natural Area.

Richard Gonzalez (crouched down at center) and Diana Azouggagh (right) measure the record the Acrocanthosaurus tracks while Dr. Thomas Adams (left) photographs other theropod prints in the lower trackway at

Thomas Adams (from left) assists volunteers Diana Price and Jennifer Shaeffer in measuring the rear foot of a sauropod, a plant-eating dinosaur, in Government Canyon State Natural Area.

Thomas Adams (from left) assists volunteers Diana Price and Jennifer Shaeffer in measuring the rear foot of a sauropod, a plant-eating dinosaur, in Government Canyon State Natural Area.

Photo: Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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An impression of what is believed to be a metapodial bone of a theropod is compared to a measuring tape.

An impression of what is believed to be a metapodial bone of a theropod is compared to a measuring tape.

Photo: Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Dr. Thomas Adams, Curator of Paleontology and Geology at the Witte Museum, records field notes on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Dr. Thomas Adams, Curator of Paleontology and Geology at the Witte Museum, records field notes on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Dr. Thomas Adams (from left) points out a particularly interesting and well preserved track in the upper trackway to volunteers Diana Azouggagh, Debi Weissling, Jennifer Schaffer and Richard Gonzalez during the sixth day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Dr. Thomas Adams (from left) points out a particularly interesting and well preserved track in the upper trackway to volunteers Diana Azouggagh, Debi Weissling, Jennifer Schaffer and Richard Gonzalez during the ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Richard Gonzalez (from left), Diana Azouggagh, Debi Weissling and Jennifer Shaffer clean out tracks in the upper trackway during the sixth day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Richard Gonzalez (from left), Diana Azouggagh, Debi Weissling and Jennifer Shaffer clean out tracks in the upper trackway during the sixth day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Diana Azouggagh, a student at UTSA, carefully cleans out a dinosaur track on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Diana Azouggagh, a student at UTSA, carefully cleans out a dinosaur track on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Diana Azouggagh (left) and Richard Gonzalez, carefully clean out dinosaur tracks on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Diana Azouggagh (left) and Richard Gonzalez, carefully clean out dinosaur tracks on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Dr Thomas Adams (top) walks up as Diana Azouggagh (fom left), Richard Gonzalez and Debi Weissling clean tracks on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Dr Thomas Adams (top) walks up as Diana Azouggagh (fom left), Richard Gonzalez and Debi Weissling clean tracks on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Jennifer Shaffer (right) carefully brushes out a dinosaur track on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Jennifer Shaffer (right) carefully brushes out a dinosaur track on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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The pads of the dinosaur's foot were well preserved on this theropod track disovered on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

The pads of the dinosaur's foot were well preserved on this theropod track disovered on the upper trackway during the sixth day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Tools used to uncover, clean and mark dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net

Tools used to uncover, clean and mark dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Dinosaur tracks on the upper trackway were marked with 2-inch square white tiles on the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Dinosaur tracks on the upper trackway were marked with 2-inch square white tiles on the sixth day of work at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ ... more

Theropod tracks, marked with 2-inch square white tiles, on the upper trackway at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net

Theropod tracks, marked with 2-inch square white tiles, on the upper trackway at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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The upper trackway during the sixth day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net

The upper trackway during the sixth day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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The best preserved Sauropod track on the lower trackway at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. The right rear footprint is believed to be from an extremely large quadrapedal plant-eating dinosaur named Sauroposeidon. The tracks of the animal were determined to measure 29 1/2 inches long and 19 1/2 inches wide. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

The best preserved Sauropod track on the lower trackway at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 14, 2014. The right rear footprint is believed to be from an extremely large quadrapedal ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Dr. Thomas Adams assigns track numbers to white tiles marking sauropod tracks on the lower trackway during the third day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, Aug. 7, 2014. MARVIN PFEIFFER/ mpfeiffer@express-news.net less

Dr. Thomas Adams assigns track numbers to white tiles marking sauropod tracks on the lower trackway during the third day of work with the dinosaur tracks at Government Canyon State Natural Area on Thursday, ... more

Photo: MARVIN PFEIFFER, Marvin Pfeiffer/ Express-News

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Where there's smoke, there's intentional fire

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With a gentle roar, fire spread across the front country of Government Canyon State Natural Area on Tuesday, sending a plume of smoke 5,000 feet into a clear blue sky.

In the fire's path stood knee-high grass, brush and a stand of eye-irritating, water-sucking junipers.

All were reduced to white ash and black smoldering wood within seconds.

Because of budget restrictions and a lack of firefighters, the last prescribed fire at Government Canyon occurred in 2007.

This one took place after more than a year of prep work, planning and waiting for ideal weather conditions to ensure the blaze would not burn out of control.

After more than 100 years of grazing and fire suppression, the oak savanna that once covered most of Bexar County is gone. Where it was not paved over, brush and invasive junipers have replaced it, Superintendent Chris Holm explained.

Government Canyon, in northwestern Bexar County, is no exception, he said, but by reintroducing periodic fires, which kill the junipers and knock back the brush in favor of the fast-growing grasses, Holm hopes to restore the savanna so visitors can see what South Texas was like before settlement.

Roberts knows that with periodic fires at Government Canyon, a wildfire there will be less intense and thus easier to control.

While he's happy to see parts of the natural area set afire, Roberts does not recommend it for Bexar County residents and suggests they stick to using mechanical means to clear flammable material from around their homes.

Bexar County remains under a burn ban because of the ongoing drought.

Even at Government Canyon, the use of prescribed fire is limited to the flat front country near the entrance, where bulldozers can clear fire lines and fire crews have easy escape routes.

In the hilly areas, which are almost a monoculture of junipers, Holm said the only type of fire that could burn would be an uncontrollable one that spread through the treetops, instead of along the ground as prescribed fires do.

Holm said just the work by hand and machine to clear areas in preparation for Tuesday's fire already had resulted in more deer, turkey and doves being seen.

By spring, if the rains cooperate, more wildlife should be spotted easily as the savanna is reclaimed by thick green grass spotted with wildflowers.